PIA returns its premier service aircraft to Sri Lanka

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) returned the Airbus A-330 aircraft to Sri Lankan Airlines that it was using for its premier services, ARY News reported.

PIA administration had to pay $8,000 per hour a day for six months for the aircrafts that were purchased on lease for its premier service. It had purchased the aircraft at a cost of over $19 million.

The national airliner also had to pay the salaries to its foreign staff and the lease cost as well.

Sources said that the seat and load factor of the aircrafts — for its London flights — was not according to plan.

The national carrier had reportedly faced a financial loss of Rs. 700 million within four months of its inauguration.

PIA was using expensive Airbus jets for its “Premier Service”. The national airliner had bought new aircraft for the flights. The features of the new service included new livery and elegant business class.

With new aircraft, more professional crew and improved service standards, PIA aimed at providing an altogether different experience to passengers